Do I have to get off the ship at each port of call?No, you are never required to get off the ship. Some passengers prefer to spend the day onboard the ship, particularly when stopping at a port they've previously visited. Many ships have scheduled shipboard activities, even on port days.

How do I get from the ship to the pier?Depending on the size of your ship and the port of call, you'll either dock right at the pier, or be shuttled into port via tender (free of charge).

Can I charge items to my shipboard account when I'm in port?Shipboard accounts are for shipboard charges only. While in port, you can generally use a major credit card or traveler's check for most purchases. Most ports also have ATMs and money exchange centers.

Are there planned activities at ports of call?At each port of call, you have the option of booking a cruise line's shore excursions, or exploring on your own. All shore excursions can be booked at the ship's shore excursion desk. Of course, guests aren't required to get off the ship at all, and may prefer to spend a quiet day onboard.

Is there full meal service on port days?Yes, all ships have full meal service on both port and sea days.

Are meals paid for while I'm in port?No, you must pay for your own meals while in port. One exception is when your ship is visiting the cruise line's private island (generally on Caribbean itineraries), during which time a beach buffet is generally served free-of-charge.

Can I bring visitors to the ship?While friends and family are welcome at most piers to see you off, for security reasons only cruise passengers are allowed to board the ships. This applies at ports of call as well.